Venidora Oliveira – Police registered 1741 traffic accidents in 2016, which caused the deaths of 71 people.

Second General Commander National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL), Commissioner Faustino da Costa said that the majority of accidents occurred in Dili municipality, where 1600 accidents were registered. "The accidents mostly happen because the driver loses control," he said.

In comparison there were 1664 accidents registered in 2015, leading to 89 deaths, 417 serious injuries and 1158 light injuries.

Although the number of deaths had decreased, he said there had been no reduction in the number of light and serious injuries caused by road accidents.

He said traffic police continued to raise awareness among students and motorists about road and traffic regulations. The program aimed to increase understanding among road users about traffic rules.

However, national MP Paul Moniz said the number of accidents remained high as many motorists ignored road rules and regulations despite ongoing efforts to raise awareness.

"When we break the law that means that we have no responsibility anymore and when we cause an accident it is not only us that are the victims, but also others."

Source: http://www.thediliweekly.com/en/news/capital/14397-71-people-died-in-traffic-accidents-in-2016